Freed SAS sniper 'optimistic' over appeal

Sgt Nightingale was handed an 18-month custodial sentence in November for illegally possessing a pistol and ammunition but was released three weeks later after appealing against his sentence.

His family is hoping to also appeal against the conviction and clear his name, and yesterday the father of two met lawyers to discuss plans for the new appeal.

Sargeant Danny Nightingale outside the Royal Courts of Justice after he was released from jail. Credit: PA Wire

At a meeting in London, which Sgt Nightingale attended with his father Humphrey, the SAS sniper was told there was a "a high degree of confidence" his convictions would be quashed, his lawyer Simon McKay said today.

Solicitor-advocate Mr McKay said: "We had a positive conference with William Clegg QC and I will now be taking steps to notify the Court of Appeal that my client wishes to proceed with his appeal against conviction."